"I welcome Justice Minister Kenneth Clarke's recommendation that the UK join the negotiations on the Commission’s proposal for a Directive on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime. This will allow the UK to play its part fully in the upcoming negotiations in the Council of Ministers. Providing minimum standards for victims of crime everywhere in Europe is a measure of necessity to strengthen confidence in the justice systems. The UK’s move would help bring the country's strong record and experience in helping victims to the rest of Europe. British people who travel abroad should also enjoy the same high standards for support that they receive at home. Following Ireland’s recent decision to join the proposal, a UK opt-in would help ensure that no matter where crimes occur in Europe, victims can have confidence that somebody is there to take care of them."